Some speculate about favoritism

9:57 PM,
Feb. 6, 2014

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While parents greeted the news of Osborn Elementary School teacher Gail Topol's return after a nine-month administrative leave with enthusiasm, some believe she received preferential treatment because of her ties to the school board president.

Topol is one of four teachers - two each from Osborn and Milton - placed on administrative leave for "improper coaching" during the state assessment tests in April.

Last week, board member Ed Fox asked board President Laura Slack to recuse herself from negotiations with Topol, just minutes before the board voted to approve the settlement. ...